Characteristics of the European medlar (mespilus germanica)
El European medlar, scientifically known as mespilus germanica, is a fruit and ornamental tree belonging to the family Rosaceae. Native to southeastern Europe and Asia Minor, it stands out for its moderate size (can reach up to 6 meters in height), rounded crown, grayish brown bark and even the presence of thorns in some specimens. Its foliage It is dense, with large, matte green leaves, short petioles, elliptical shapes and toothed margins.
This tree presents white flowers of considerable size (3-5 cm in diameter), usually solitary at the ends of their branches. It flowers in spring and is pollinated mainly by insects, attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators to the garden.
El fruit It is a characteristic drupe, brown when ripe, with an acidic and astringent taste when green, becoming sweet once fully ripe and after a natural softening process (bletting). Each fruit contains up to five elongated brown seeds.
Ideal growing conditions for the European loquat
The adaptability of the European medlar It is remarkable, but to optimize its development, it is advisable to pay attention to several conditions:
- Light: It prefers full sun, although it can thrive in semi-shade. direct sun exposure promotes greater flowering and higher quality fruits.
- Climate: It adapts perfectly to temperate and Mediterranean climates. Tolerates light frosts and can withstand temperatures below zero, but intense frosts can damage its buds and fruit trees. In mild winters, it can behave as a semi-evergreen.
- Wind: It is not very tolerant of strong winds, so it is advisable to look for a sheltered location.
- Floors: It prefers deep, slightly acidic or neutral soils, well drained and rich in organic materialAlthough it adapts to less fertile soils, it avoids excessively calcareous and compact soils to prevent chlorosis and root asphyxiation. moisture It must be kept balanced, without puddles.
- pH: Ideally between 6 and 8. It is sensitive to salinity and excess lime.
planting and propagation
La plantation The European loquat is usually planted in autumn or late winter to take advantage of soil moisture and facilitate rooting. The hole should be at least one meter in diameter and depth to ensure proper root development. It is recommended to space the specimens 5 to 6 meters apart if several trees are grown. Staking helps guide the trunk's initial growth.
La propagation It can be done by seeds, cuttings or grafts on other Rosaceae such as quince, pear, acerola or hawthorn. seed germination It requires cold stratification for two to three months. Some growers soak the seeds in warm water 24 hours before sowing to improve success.
European medlar care
- Irrigation: Moderate. During the first few years after planting, regular waterings They are essential during dry periods. Adult trees, once established, tolerate some drought but appreciate additional irrigation during flowering and fruit development. Avoid waterlogging.
- Subscriber: Un organic mulch (manure, compost or bark) activates growth and improves soil structure. It is advisable to apply balanced fertilizer in spring, coinciding with the beginning of vegetation.
- Soil maintenance: Keeping the soil free of weeds helps prevent competition for nutrients and water. Deep tillage is not recommended.
- Pruning: It does not require intensive pruning, but it does require cleaning of damaged, dry, poorly oriented or poorly located branches. formation pruning It is carried out in the first few years, during the winter dormancy. During fruiting pruning, tangled branches are removed to allow light and air into the interior.
Flowering, fruiting and harvesting
La flowering The flowering of the European medlar occurs in spring. Its hermaphrodite flowers are grouped singly and attract numerous pollinators. fructification It is produced in late summer or autumn, and the fruits are suitable for consumption after being harvested and going through the "bletting" process.
La harvest Harvesting should be done carefully, choosing well-developed fruit that is not yet excessively soft or green. It is essential to avoid impacts, as the fruit is sensitive, and to transport it preferably in boxes made of soft materials. Once harvested, it is recommended to store it in cool, ventilated, and dark places, arranged so that it does not touch each other.
Diseases and pests
Although the European medlar It is a resistant tree, it can be affected by certain enfermedades and pests:
- Spotted or scab (Fusicladium spp.): It causes damage to the fruit, common after autumn rains.
- Monica: It causes fruit rot and shoot wilting. It requires preventative treatment with specific fungicides.
- Oidium: It manifests as a whitish powder on leaves and flowers, affecting vigor and production.
- Common pests: Aphids, mealybugs, spider mites, and occasionally fruit flies. Maintaining good ventilation and cleaning practices is essential.
Benefits and uses of the European medlar
El European medlar It stands out for its dual ornamental and productive function. Its spring flowering beautifies any garden space, while its fruit It's ideal for direct consumption, making homemade jams, jellies, compotes, and even preparing plant-based drinks from its seeds. It's perfect for hobby gardens, urban gardens, and small spaces due to its compact size and low maintenance requirements.
Another great advantage is its participation in sustainable gardening, adapting well to varied soils and climates, with low water and fertilizer requirements. Thus, it contributes to the biodiversity local, favoring the presence of pollinators and auxiliary fauna. Furthermore, its wood is appreciated in small crafts.